Memorization and physical abilities decline with age?

[rovis77]

Have you noticed a decline in later age in your memorization and physical abilities at the piano like virtuosity, finger speed, reflexes, etc or it is still the same as when you were young?. Thanks

[essence]

Much less decline than my speed at running 5 miles!

[pashkuli]

Not only that but we also get uglier with age.

[rachmaninoff_forever]

Have you noticed a decline in later age in your memorization and physical abilities at the piano like virtuosity, finger speed, reflexes, etc or it is still the same as when you were young?. Thanks

I think you become more efficient with the way you learn and play but the actual raw physical ability you have definitely declines.  However at a much later age unlike basketball where you retire in your 30s

[essence]

I find the biggest ailment is eye sight. I need very good light and glasses to see the music.

Otherwise I am just as mediocre at 71 as I was at 21.

[martinn]

The very finest techniques to learn will ever get better up to a level, but the counteracting ability to use memory may get worse. Usually the former will lead. And I have heard that music memory may be the very last memory to leave.

[andrew_s]

I’d say physical decline is real but often overstated. Fast repeated notes take more work, yes, but stability and control can actually improve.

Memory shifts toward structural landmarks rather than long chains of notes. That feels safer in performance.

Like essence said, good lighting helps more than extra scales. 

[geopianoincanada]

Eye sight deterioration and increasing arthritis both get in the way as I age. And now just within the last 2 weeks I'm recovering from hospitalization due to a temporary right leg paralysis caused by this recent Influenza A virus attacking nerves, making right foot use very weak and slow. Never had that happen before, it must be age related.